Providence Water, although a department of the City of Providence, is regulated by state and federal agencies in addition to city policies and procedures. The quality of our treated drinking water is regulated by the US Environmental Protection Agency and the Rhode Island Department of Health. Our revenue and rate structure is regulated by the Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission.

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Forest Management

Science-based management of the 13,000 acres of public forestland around the reservoirs is guided by a comprehensive plan to support the collection of the highest quality drinking water. Since the creation of the reservoir system, Providence Water has actively worked the land to promote long-term forest productivity and ecosystem health.

An overarching goal is to maintain a forest that is resilient to natural disturbances (including hurricanes, fires, and insect and tree disease outbreaks) that could have a negative impact on water quality. Across the landscape, carefully planned timber harvests and other activities are used to create a mosaic of forest stands with a greater variety of tree species, sizes, and ages. It's a classic example of where diversification to avoid catastrophic loss makes good sense.

Other goals are to protect unique natural and historic features and to provide habitat for a variety of wildlife species. Sensitive sites and older forest stands are excluded from harvesting and left to develop through natural processes.